First black farming couple murdered in Free State - AfriForum   

AfriForum today renewed its pleas to government to declare farm murders a priority crime and establish specialist units for rural safety. This came after the deaths of Andrew and Loryn Monakane (both 39) who were brutally murdered on their farm Graigmont near Dewetsdorp in the Free State. According to the register kept by AfriForum the Monakanes were the first black farming couple who were murdered in a farm attack in the province (see Rapport article).

"This incident proves beyond any doubt that farm attacks are not a racial issue. Rural areas are unsafe and the refusal of the police to institute proper security aggravates the situation," said Ian Cameron, Head of Community Safety at AfriForum.

Mr Monakane was shot dead. Mrs Monakane was raped and shot in the face. Media reports stated that she died in her home a day after her release from hospital. 

AfriForum says a black farmer from the Eastern Cape and his housekeeper were also murdered earlier this year.

"We would like to establish a cooperative relationship with the new Minister of Police, Nkosinathi Nhleko, to ensure safety in rural areas," Cameron concluded.

Statement issued by Ian Cameron, Head: Community Safety, AfriForum, May 26 2014

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